What should I do if I have to rebook a driving test?
If you find yourself having failed your driving test, you shouldn’t give up! Failing your practical driving test can be one of the most frustrating things that can happen to you. After spending vast amounts of your personal time and money mastering the controls behind the wheel, it feels cruel and demotivating to fail on very simple errors. There are many myths and misunderstandings around regarding having to rebook a driving test: here’s what you can do if you face having to rebook.
Driving Test Retakes: Understanding the Rules
Failing your driving test isn’t the end of the road, but it does mean you’ll need to wait before booking another attempt. The DVSA requires you to wait at least 10 working days before you can sit the test again. This gives you enough time to reflect on your mistakes, improve your driving skills, and boost your confidence before your next attempt.
Check the DVSA Website
Visit the official GOV.UK website for booking driving tests. You’ll need to rebook your test through this portal.
Have Your Information Ready
Ensure you have the following:
- Your UK driving licence number.
- Your driving test booking reference number or the date and time of your original test.
Log in and Rebook
- Log in to the booking portal using your driving licence number.
- Choose a new date and time that suits you. Check for availability at your preferred test centre Change Your Driving Test Now!
Check for Earlier Dates
If you want an earlier test date, you can:
- Regularly check for cancellations on the DVSA website.
- Use a driving test cancellation app or service to monitor availability.
Pay the Fee (if applicable)
If you’re outside the 3-working-day cancellation window, you may need to pay the full fee for rebooking. The standard fee for a driving test varies:
- £62 for a weekday test.
- £75 for a weekend or bank holiday test.
Confirm Your New Appointment
You’ll receive an email confirmation with the details of your new test. Save this email for future reference.
Prepare for the New Test Date
Use the extra time to:
- Practise your driving skills.
- Focus on areas where you might need improvement.
- Consider using mock tests with your driving instructor.
Cancel if Necessary
If you cannot attend the rebooked test, ensure you cancel or reschedule at least 3 working days in advance to avoid losing your fee.
Key Tips:
- Always double-check the location and time of your new test.
- Take advantage of resources like the RouteBuddy app for practising local test routes.
FAQs About Rebooking Your Driving Test
1. How long must I wait to rebook my test?
You must wait 10 working days before retaking your driving test.
2. Where do I rebook the test?
Rebook via the official GOV.UK driving test service.
3. What details do I need to rebook?
Your driving licence number and either your test reference number or original test date/time.
4. Can I change my test centre?
Yes, choose a different test centre when rebooking, if available.
5. How much does it cost to rebook?
- £62 for weekday tests
- £75 for weekends/bank holidays
6. How can I find an earlier test date?
Check the DVSA site or use a cancellation checker app.
7. Will I get a confirmation?
Yes, by email—keep it for reference.
8. Can I cancel or reschedule again?
Yes, but you must do it 3 working days before the test to avoid losing your fee.
9. How can I prepare for the new test?
Practise key areas, take mock tests, and try apps like RouteBuddy.
10. What if I miss the rebooked test?
You’ll lose your fee and need to pay again to rebook.